July 29, 2025 | Mati City, Davao Oriental
In a bold move to address persistent problems in basic services, the Province of Davao Oriental brought together neighboring provinces Davao de Oro and Davao del Norte in a historic Interprovincial Dialogue on July 25, 2025, held at La-nes Kita-anan in the City of Mati. The landmark gathering was a show of regional unity to confront the long-standing challenges in energy and water systems, especially in rural and climate-vulnerable communities.
The dialogue zeroed in on critical concerns such as frequent brownouts in remote barangays, steep electricity rates, decaying infrastructure, and worsening water shortages — issues that have plagued residents for years. In Mati City alone, the water supply is projected to decline significantly due to the intensifying effects of climate change, raising alarms over the need for urgent and sustainable solutions.
In response, Davao Oriental has unveiled an ambitious sustainability plan aimed at making basic services more accessible, reliable, and environmentally friendly. These include exploring renewable energy options such as solar, hydroelectric, and waste-to-energy technologies; modernizing power distribution lines; promoting rainwater harvesting; and crafting local energy and water codes that would institutionalize climate-resilient development planning.
Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang, who spearheaded the provincial initiative, emphasized the importance of ensuring that all Oriental Dabawenyos, regardless of where they live, have access to clean and affordable energy and water. “These services are not privileges. They are lifelines that uphold public health, economic resilience, and a dignified quality of life,” the governor said during his remarks at the forum.
The dialogue marks a turning point in the province’s drive to confront environmental and development challenges head-on. With the climate crisis intensifying and rural areas falling behind in service delivery, the regional approach signals a promising path toward shared solutions and stronger collaboration between local governments.
Officials from participating provinces agreed to form a working group to coordinate inter-provincial efforts, share data, and lobby for national support in implementing localized energy and water reforms.
The Province of Davao Oriental’s firm commitment to clean and resilient development not only underscores its leadership in the Davao Region but also sets a powerful example for other local government units across the country. As Governor Dayanghirang declared, “This is only the beginning of a broader journey toward energy and water security that leaves no community behind.”